**Turkish Airlines Prohibits Journalist for Half a Year**
Turkish aviation reporter Ali Kıdık asserts that he has been excluded from Turkish Airlines for six months due to a breach of the airline’s “Safe Travel Passenger Tracking System.” This system is generally designated for individuals who generate considerable disruptions. Nonetheless, the basis for Kıdık’s exclusion seems to stem from his remarks that may have undermined the airline’s brand reputation. The company has a guideline permitting them to bar passengers who make such remarks.
**What Did This Journalist Say That Was So Offensive?**
The exact event that led to Kıdık’s exclusion is not officially revealed by Turkish Airlines. However, it coincides with a social media update on January 7, 2026, where Kıdık indicated that Turkish Airlines flight attendants were prohibited from wearing national flag pins or displaying a portrait of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk on their uniforms. This update attracted considerable attention and backlash, particularly as Kıdık queried whether the airline harbored an issue with Atatürk and the Turkish flag. Some argue that Kıdık’s claims were overstated, as the uniform policies have allegedly been in effect since 2011, with a recent memo merely reiterating the established rule to employees.
**Final Thoughts**
Turkish Airlines has barred a journalist from its services for six months for supposedly making unfavorable remarks about the airline. The airline maintains a published guideline that enables them to prohibit passengers who negatively affect their brand reputation. This situation acts as a warning for Turkish Airlines travelers concerning the possible repercussions of publicly criticizing the airline.